Memebers of the Krewe of Zulu parde dispite ther rain Mardi Gras day on March 4, 2014 in New Orleans, Louisiana. Fat Tuesday, the traditional celebration on the day before Ash Wednesday and the begining of Lent, is marked in New Orleans with parades and marches through many neighborhoods in the city.

As the city of St. Louis celebrates Mardi Gras, the lighthearted celebration can’t change the somber tone in the area following the death of Michael Brown. Ferguson protestors used the city’s most extravagant annual event as a platform for their voices to be heard. A group of demonstrators gathered on the steps of City Hall to hold a protest outside of St. Louis Mayor Francis Slay’s annual Mardi Gras Ball. They held signs that bared statements against the use of force by police. The protestors dubbed the event the “Slayer’s Ball.” Attendees and demonstrators mixed outside of the event with no confrontation. At one point during the evening, performers at the ball went outside to put on a show for the protestors. Police Chief Sam Dotson monitored the small group of demonstrators outside of the event. Read more.

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Rio’s Impoverished Population Watches Carnival From Afar

Rio’s Carnival brings out thousands of people to celebrate Brazil’s rich culture; but as ticket prices continue to rise many natives have found themselves pushed out of a tradition because they aren’t able to afford it. Instead of partaking in the festivities, hundreds of poor people gather at a nearby overpass toting their beach chairs so they can watch from afar. “Carnival is Brazil’s biggest popular party, but the masses are being excluded,” said Neuza Maria Terreira, a local school teacher. “We don’t actually see much, but it’s better than nothing.” Prices for seats at the carnival start at over $75. The monthly minimum wage in the country for most people is only $278. Read more.

Report: 140-plus Arrests Made During Mardi Gras Celebration in New Orleans

As thousands are out partaking in the Mardi Gras festivities in New Orleans, Louisiana State Police troopers are making sure that everything is in order. According to State Police statistics there have been 140 arrests made so far in New Orleans; 50 of them were for felony charges. 14 weapons were seized by state troopers and there were over 315 non-drug related charges over the span of nine days. 100 or so drug-related charges have spurred from the 140 arrests. “As troopers deployed into the city, they were challenged to be proactive and make their presence known both to the good citizens of this community and the criminal element,” said State Police Superintendent Col. Mike Edmonson. “Citizens and tourists will continue to see LSP support for the NOPD and the city of New Orleans.” Read more.